School board faces various topics

Various topics ranging from new social studies books to the 1968 football team to resignations were discussed at the Baldwin School Board meeting Monday night.

One of the first major topics was the adoption for new social studies books at Baldwin Junior High School. Curriculum Director Connie Wehmeyer presented the school board with the book that was chosen by the three BJHS teachers as the best option.

The board did not act on the book proposal, but will vote on it at the June meeting. Parents and community members have a chance to review the books if they wish before the June meeting.

"I think that's the reason the process was set up," Supt. James White said. "Anyone interested in taking a look at any of our textbook adoptions, can take a look at that and tell us what they think."

The next topic again dealt with next year's budget, but in a different manner. White presented the board with a list of projects that might be included in the capital outlay or bond issue, if the board decides to go for it.

"It's an idea of different projects we can put into a capital outlay or bond issue if the board decides to do that," White said. "Gary (Collins) and John (Gottstein) had gotten in touch with contractors on most all of those items and asked a ballpark figure on what it might cost to do that work."

The list included a new auditorium, baseball and softball field construction, a track north of the high school and junior high schools and other repairs around the district.

White said the idea of a bond issue is nothing that the board has put a lot of consideration into yet.

"It's very much up in the air," White said. "I don't think we are close at all. If we pursue that avenue, my guess is the earliest will be in early fall."

The board approved the student fee policy for Baldwin High School and BJHS that had been in discussion for a few months.

"It's saying that students are going to be responsible to pay the fees even if they do have free or reduced lunches," White said. "They will receive free or reduced lunches, but that does not qualify them of any other fees to be waived."

Another approval from the board was to add the 1968 BHS football team to the state champions board on U.S. Highway 56. The Bulldogs went 9-0 when state playoffs did not exist. But, that team will be added to the board.

"My wife and I have made the decision to leave Baldwin for a couple for reasons," Broaddus said. "One reason is the Shawnee Heights school district was able to offer both of us good teaching positions. The other reason is that we are both originally from the Topeka area, so, in a way, we are moving back home."

Broaddus said he has enjoyed his time at BHS and will never forget some of the people there.

"I will definitely miss the students and the staff here at Baldwin High School," Broaddus said. "I have formed many great relationships and memories here at Baldwin in the last seven years, as a both a coach and a teacher, that will be remembered for the rest of my life. I would like to wish all my colleagues, students and athletes the best of luck in the future."